O Pedrouzo to Santiago de Compostela

Tuesday 7 June 2016 - Day 41

O Pedrouzo to Santiago de Compostela - 20km

Woke very excited, yet calm... my last walking day! Foggy again. Took off in the thick fog, straight into dark mossy forest interspersed with eucalypts. Lots of birds active and calling. Only 3.5km to the first stop, where I had some toast. Met up there with South African couple Willie and Astrid. I met them way back in Los Arcos, when Becky and I shared a room with them... they said they'd had just been thinking of me. They asked about Becky, and I was able to fill them in with her news.

I walked alone today, except for other pilgrims who passed by. I listened to music, which lifted my spirits and helped me get into a rhythm. The way went through more wonderful forest areas and some small villages. This sign caught my eye. The literal translation is, 'be always yourself'. Buen Camino is what you say to a pilgrim. It means 'good way'.

The track then skirted the edge of the airport, where I passed through the village of Lavacolla. THis is where medieval pilgrim washed and purified themselves before their arrival in Santiago de Compostella. My legs and feet started to get a bit weary as the track was alongside a road and mostly uphill. I just plodded on in my one gear. My spirits were buoyed, as everyone seemed light and happy today.

Another small patch of forest and then another stop at Camping San Marcos, this time for an early lunch. Oddly enough, this was the best bocadillo of the Camino, soft bread with cheese and tomato. Most of the bread in Spain has crust as tough as old boot leather. Saw Willie and Astrid again.

I had a brief stop at Monte do Gozo/ Mount of Joy and then started the downhill path to the cathedral in Santiago de Compostela. There was much suburban sprawl to negotiate my through. I met up with Marrit from my Brisbane Camino Pilgrims group. She was at Orisson on my first night but I had not encountered her since. She was walking, yes walking, the 15 or so kilometres out to the airport to catch her flight home. I can assure you that I will not be doing any such thing!

Arrived at the cathedral about 12.30 pm and I must admit it felt a bit flat, as I was alone and knew no one else in the square at the time. I waited for Willie and Astrid and we were able to have a bit of a celebration together.

First job was to get our Compostela certificate from the pilgrim office, thankfully not too long a wait in the line. I then found my accommodation and ran into Don and his wife in the lobby. Don was the Brisbane guy Kay had organised for me to catch up with way back on Pamplona. Seeing him that day saved me, as all I wanted to do was go home.

Next Jackie and Steve came along, so more chatting. The place I'm staying is lovely, an old monastery. My room is small and basic, but nice... and all mine. It's called Monesterio San Martin Pinario and it's quite near the cathedral.

After a shower I went out to collect my postal package from the Post Office. Was unable to collect my second package from Ivar, at the University, as he was away for the day. Booked a bus tour for tomorrow, out to Finisterre and Muxia. Jackie, Steve and the Busso Boys had booked in, so I did as well. Met with Jackie, Steve, Helen and her friend Judith for drinks and dinner. Judith, whose back had improved with rest and time, had enjoyed getting to know Santiago, awaiting Helen's arrival. They leave tomorrow.

It was amazing to be walking along and suddenly see and greet people I'd met along the way. I couldn't stop smiling, even through my blistered feet and my tummy are still giving my trouble. Organised a quick good-bye with Ana, as she heads off tomorrow too. She came to meet me after dinner... such a lovely lady! Also managed to pick-up my other package, from Ivar, after dinner... great excitement, a different top to wear!

Well, I'm here, I made it and I can stop walking. I pondered on 'glad or sad' over the last few days, and I think it's a bit of both. Glad I can stop and glad that I did it. Sad that I had never-ending foot trouble and much pain but also sad that my amazing experience is over.

Even though my walk is done I will continue to post until I come home. Some serious touristy business ahead. Thanks again for the wonderful support and encouragement I've had from home... it's meant a great deal to me.